"Light tremor in Pasto revives concerns and highlights the importance of preparedness."

On Wednesday, August 21, the residents of Pasto, in the department of Nariño, experienced a slight tremor that has caught the attention of the local community. According to information provided by the Colombian Geological Service (SGC), the earthquake was recorded at 10:50 a.m. and reached a magnitude of 3.3 on the Richter scale, categorizing it as a mild to moderate seismic event. Although the magnitude was not alarming, the sensation of movement has generated unease among the population, which, despite being accustomed to these phenomena, always lives with a certain degree of concern regarding the possibility of more intense earthquakes. The SGC, responsible for continuously monitoring seismic activity in the country, reported that the epicenter of the tremor was located near the municipalities of Santiago, Sibundoy, and Colón, in the neighboring region of Putumayo. These areas are known for their seismic activity due to the complex interaction of tectonic plates converging in Colombian territory, making the country one of the most seismically active in Latin America. Colombia, due to its geography and its location in the so-called "Ring of Fire of the Pacific," faces the possibility of experiencing multiple earthquakes throughout the month, with an average that can reach up to 2,500 seismic movements. This geological characteristic has led the country to develop prevention and response protocols for emergency situations, aimed at protecting the population and minimizing the risks associated with these natural events. Despite the concern that each tremor generates, SGC experts assure that most earthquakes in Colombia are of low magnitude and do not pose an imminent danger. However, constant monitoring and seismic studies are essential for better understanding the behavior of these tectonic plates and for developing more effective mitigation policies. In this regard, education and preparedness of the population are crucial for facing any eventuality. Local authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and to follow the safety recommendations established in case of earthquakes. Among these recommendations are the identification of safe points in homes and workplaces, as well as the creation of evacuation plans that can be implemented in the event of a stronger seismic movement. The importance of being prepared cannot be underestimated, especially in a region where seismic risk is part of daily life. On the other hand, the recent tremor has also served as a reminder that the infrastructure of many cities needs to be reviewed and reinforced to withstand potential more severe earthquakes. In this sense, both local and national governments have been working on improvement and adaptation projects for buildings and other structures, although there is still a long way to go. Despite the concerns generated by these tremors, many residents of Nariño have learned to coexist with them. Most communities have developed a level of resilience that allows them to face these situations calmly, understanding that they are part of the region's nature. However, it is always crucial to remain vigilant and continue promoting education on how to act in the event of an earthquake. The earthquake on August 21 is just one more in the long list of seismic movements that have shaken Colombia throughout its history. Each tremor is an opportunity to reinforce the culture of prevention and to remind us that, although nature is unpredictable, preparation and knowledge can make a significant difference in people's safety. In conclusion, the tremor recorded this Wednesday is not only a reminder of the region's seismic activity but also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of preparedness and education within the community. Being informed and prepared for these phenomena is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in a seismically active area like Nariño and its surroundings.